J. G. Abbott “The Aristone” Archtop Guitar, London, c.1929 – Serial No. 174
A rare and historically important early British archtop guitar by J. G. Abbott & Co. Ltd. of London, marketed under the company’s distinctive “The Aristone” brand. This early Aristone, serial number 174, dates from approximately 1929 and represents the work of one of Britain’s notable early fretted-instrument makers. J. G. Abbott was particularly respected for his banjos, but the company also produced a small number of guitars, making surviving Aristone examples comparatively uncommon. The guitar has a handsome vintage sunburst finish and the traditional construction associated with early jazz and dance-band instruments. Its large, full-depth archtop body incorporates elegant f-holes, a floating bridge, and a period trapeze-style tailpiece. The broad body and resonant acoustic design would have been well suited to rhythm accompaniment, jazz chord work, popular music, and dance-band playing. The headstock carries the original “The Aristone” badge, while the internal label identifies the London maker and the company’s association with the Guitar Company, London W.2. The serial number, 174, is stamped or recorded internally and places the instrument among the earlier Aristone guitars. Features • Maker: J. G. Abbott & Co. Ltd. • Brand: The Aristone • Country of manufacture: England • Approximate date: Circa 1929 • Serial number: 174 • Instrument type: Six-string archtop guitar • Finish: Vintage sunburst • Body: Full-depth archtop design with f-holes • Bridge: Floating period-style bridge • Tailpiece: Trapeze-style metal tailpiece • Headstock: Original Aristone badge • Internal label: J. G. Abbott & Co. Ltd., London W.2 Condition This is an original vintage instrument showing appropriate signs of age and use. The finish has expected playing wear, surface marks, and age-related lacquer checking. There are also historic repairs to areas of binding wear consistent with a guitar of this age. Some of the binding requires additional repair but does not hinder playability. Although this is a historic collectors guitar it still plays beautifully with nice action and room to adjust if required. Neck is flat and without twist and has been professionally re-fretted at some points point. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. A professional setup, restringing, or conservation work may be advisable depending on the buyer’s intended use.